Shinkyo Bridge [Tochigi]

2025年3月30日

【Shinkyo Bridge summary】

Shinkyo Bridge is a sacred bridge with the legend that when Shodo Shonin opened Mt. Nikko at the end of the Nara period (710-794), he was blocked by the rapids of the Oya River and asked for blessings from the gods and Buddha. The bridge was rebuilt in 1629 in conjunction with the construction of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, but it was washed away in a river flood and replaced in 1904. Since then, it has been dismantled and repaired several times, with the current version being repaired in March 2005. It is under the jurisdiction of Futaarasan Shrine.

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Nikko Futarasan jinja Shrine [Tochigi]

Although it is sometimes considered one of the three most bizarre bridges in Japan (Nihon san san kikibashi), it generally refers to the three bridges, Kintai-bashi, Sarubashi, and Aihon-bashi. However, it seems that Kamihashi Bridge is sometimes included instead of Aihon Bridge.

【Shinkyo Bridge】

In the past, only a limited number of people were allowed to cross the bridge, but now anyone can cross it by paying 300 yen.

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Currently, you cannot pass through to the other side and have to go back the way you came, but the view from the bridge is nice.

【Jinjaodo】

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The bridge leads to the Jinjaodo (Shrine of the Goddess of Mercy).

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The current hall was rebuilt in 1978. When Shodo Shonin entered Nikko, he was stopped by the Oya River, and Fukasadaio appeared on the other side of the river and saved him.

【Shinkyo Bridge GOSHUIN】

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【Shinkyo Bridge Nearby attractions】

Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Nikko Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, Taiyuin Temple, Rigemangafuchi and Jiunji Temple

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Nikko Toshogu Shrine [Tochigi]

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Nikko Futarasan jinja Shrine [Tochigi]

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Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple and Taiyuin [Tochigi]

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Takino’o Shrine [Tochigi]

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憾満ヶ淵・慈雲寺【栃木県】

【Shinkyo Bridge Access】

Manager’s Comments

Located at the entrance to Nikko’s shrines and temples, the bridge is a symbol of Nikko. Today, the Shinbashi Bridge is more of a “viewing bridge” than a “crossing bridge,” and has become part of the landscape as the gateway to Nikko. However, I hear that the bridge is very difficult to maintain. The bridge is beautiful enough even if you don’t enter, but why don’t you cross it at least once to contribute to the maintenance of a cultural asset? I was surprised to see many visitors from overseas who did not expect to be able to cross the bridge.

Site/Facility Size

(1)

Richness of Nature

(3)

Ease of access

(3)

Number of tourists

(4.5)

Shinkyo Bridge

Kamibachiishi-cho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi 321-1401

※No parking is available.

Approximately 30 minutes walk from Tobu Nikko Station and JR Nikko Station

Approximately 8 minutes by bus from Tobu Nikko Station or JR Nikko Station (purchase a World Heritage Tour Handbook (600 yen) at the station and take the circular bus for convenience)

参考日光二荒山神社　- 神橋 –